he ays of ractice
- For those who seek Enlightenment there are three ways of
practice that must be understood and followed. First, disciplines
for practical behaviour; second, right concentration; and third,
wisdom.
What are the disciplines? Every man, whether he is a commoner
or way-seeker, should follow the precepts for good behaviour.
He should control both his mind and body and guard the gates
of his five senses. He should be afraid of even a trifling evil and,
from moment to moment, should endeavour to practise good
deeds.What is meant by the concentration of the mind? It means to get
quickly away from greedy and evil desires as they arise and to
hold the mind pure and tranquil.What then is wisdom? It is the wisdom to perfectly understand
and to patiently accept the Four Noble Truths — to know the
fact of suffering and its nature; to know the source of suffering;
to know what constitutes the end of suffering; and to know the
Noble Path that leads to the end of suffering.ose who earnestly follow these three ways of practice may
rightly be called the disciples of the Buddha.
- It is difficult to advance along the path that leads to En-
lightenment so long as one is covetous of comfort and luxuries